Sasikala engages in crucial discussions, contemplating her strategy for the 2026 elections as the birth anniversary of Jayalalithaa approaches. On February 15, Chennai (NationPress) reported that V. K. Sasikala, the former interim general secretary of the AIADMK and a close associate of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, has embarked on a significant round of meetings with her loyalists throughout Tamil Nadu. These discussions, which commenced earlier this week, are seen as a prelude to a vital announcement concerning her faction's electoral strategy. Sources indicate that she is engaging with former legislators, district-level leaders, and long-standing supporters to evaluate the political landscape and the organizational strength of her group. This round of consultations will proceed until February 18, with a decisive political direction expected to emerge by February 24, coinciding with the emotionally significant birth anniversary of Jayalalithaa—a date that holds considerable meaning for AIADMK supporters. Although she currently lacks a formal role within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), Sasikala maintains her claim as the legitimate general secretary. Her supporters contend that it is time for her faction to re-enter active electoral politics rather than remain inactive, as seen during the 2021 Assembly election. A senior figure in her camp remarked that these consultations aim to encourage Sasikala to “enter the electoral fray and make her presence felt,” arguing that the parent party's operations are no longer aligned with the principles of founder M. G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa. However, it is important to note that Sasikala will not be eligible to contest the 2026 elections due to her ongoing disqualification stemming from a 2017 corruption conviction, with her ineligibility set to expire only next year. Her nephew, T. T. V. Dhinakaran, established the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) in 2018, initially designating Sasikala as general secretary while she was incarcerated in Bengaluru. He later took over the role and has since adopted independent political stances. Meanwhile, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has dismissed the possibility of reconciling with Sasikala or former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam within the party. Sasikala’s faction believes the AIADMK's electoral failures, including losses in constituencies like Tiruvallur, indicate organizational shortcomings. All potential alliances, including possible collaboration with O. Panneerselvam or other regional factions, are reportedly under consideration as she prepares for a decisive move.